Drain Field Repair in Jackson County, GA

Drain Field FAQ

 

Can a drain field be repaired? Sometimes, yes. It depends on what is wrong and how much of the field is affected. We check first, then tell you if repair or replacement makes more sense.

 

How long does a drain field last? Many last for decades with good care. Soil, water use, pumping and roots all make a difference.

 

Can heavy rain cause drain field problems? Yes. Long, heavy rain can soak the soil. That can cause slow drains or wet spots for a while. If it does not clear up, have it checked.

 

Does standing water always mean my field failed? No. It can come from rain, poor yard drainage or a tank problem. An inspection tells you for sure.

 

What should I do if I think my drain field is failing? Use less water. Do laundry over a few days instead of one. Then call us to check it before it gets worse.

 

Do you offer financing? Yes. Financing may be available for larger jobs. See our financing page.

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When a Drain Field Fails: Georgia's Sewer Rule

Most people think of a failed drain field as a mess in the yard. Georgia's rules look at it a bit differently. The state's definition says a system has failed when it is a health hazard. That happens when sewage is not treated or disposed of well enough.

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What comes next can depend on whether sewer is close by. Georgia's septic rules say this:

• If sewer is available. When a septic system fails and public or community sewer is available, the home must connect right away.

• What counts as close. The rule says a property must connect when sewer is within 200 feet of the property line. The same goes for sewer along the road edge next to the property.

• The exception. A failing home system may be let off from connecting. The repair or new system has to meet the state's septic manual. The lot also needs enough room and usable soil. The County Board of Health decides that.

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So a failed field does not always mean a new field. And it does not always mean sewer, either. It can depend on the lot and what is nearby.

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If you are not sure where you stand, we can help you find out. When a new field is the answer, Septic Plus handles the permit work and site prep for repairs. We install new drain fields, too. Call our family at 770-472-7587.

 

Signs Your Drain Field Is Failing

 

• Soggy ground or standing water over the field

• Sewage smells in the yard

• Grass over the field much greener than the rest of the yard

• Slow drains all over the house

• Backups after heavy rain

 

Why Drain Fields Fail Here

 

Northeast Georgia sits on red clay. Clay drains slowly. When solids escape the tank, they clog the gravel and soil in the field. Too much water from leaks or heavy laundry days can flood it. Roots and heavy trucks can crush the lines. Most failing fields have one of these causes.

 

What We Do

 

We find out why the field is failing first. Sometimes a pump out and a fixed baffle are enough to stop the damage. Sometimes a section of line needs repair. When the whole field is done, we design a new one for your soil and help with the permit. Call 770-472-7587 to set up a visit.

 

 

Drain Field Questions

 

Can a drain field be saved? Often, yes. If the cause is a full tank or a broken baffle, fixing that can stop the damage before the whole field fails.

 

How long does a drain field last? With good care, many years. Regular pumping and smart water use help it last.

 

Can I build over my drain field? No. Keep sheds, patios, pools and driveways off of it.

 

 

Drain Fields Near You

 

We repair and replace drain fields in Commerce, Jefferson, Maysville, Nicholson, Athens and all of Jackson County. Call 770-472-7587.